Written by Parkinson’s disease (PD) is a progressive neurological disorder that affects movement. Symptoms start gradually and get worse over time. They can include tremor, slowness of movement, stiffness, and balance problems.
The cause of PD is unknown, but it is thought to be caused by a combination of genetic and environmental factors. There is no cure for PD, but there are treatments that can help manage the symptoms.
The most common symptoms of PD are:
- Tremor: Shaking, usually in the hands, arms, legs, jaw, or face.
- Slowness of movement: Bradykinesia.
- Rigidity: Stiffness of the muscles.
- Balance problems: Difficulty walking, standing, or sitting.
- Postural instability: A tendency to fall.
- Speech problems: Soft voice, slurred speech, or difficulty pronouncing words.
- Thinking problems: Difficulty concentrating, making decisions, or planning.
- Depression: A common symptom of PD.
- Anxiety: A common symptom of PD.
Other symptoms that can occur with PD include:
- Fatigue: Tiredness.
- Sleep problems: Trouble sleeping or sleeping too much.
- Constipation: Difficulty having a bowel movement.
- Urinary problems: Difficulty urinating or frequent urination.
- Pain: Pain in the muscles or joints.
- Dry mouth: Decreased saliva production.
- Reduced blinking: Dry eyes.
- Weight loss: Unintentional weight loss.
The symptoms of PD can vary from person to person and can change over time. The disease usually progresses slowly, but some people may experience a sudden worsening of symptoms (called a “sudden onset”).
There is no cure for PD, but there are treatments that can help manage the symptoms. The goal of treatment is to improve quality of life and slow the progression of the disease.
The main treatments for PD are:
- Medications: There are several medications that can help control the symptoms of PD. These medications work by increasing the levels of dopamine in the brain.
- Surgery: In some cases, surgery may be an option for people with PD. Deep brain stimulation (DBS) is a surgery that involves implanting electrodes in the brain to deliver electrical stimulation to specific areas. DBS can help improve symptoms such as tremor, slowness of movement, and rigidity.
- Physical therapy: Physical therapy can help improve balance, coordination, and range of motion.
- Occupational therapy: Occupational therapy can help people with PD learn how to do activities of daily living, such as dressing, bathing, and eating.
- Speech therapy: Speech therapy can help people with PD improve their speech and swallowing.
There are also a number of lifestyle changes that can help people with PD manage their symptoms. These include:
- Getting regular exercise: Exercise can help improve balance, coordination, and range of motion.
- Eating a healthy diet: A healthy diet can help maintain a healthy weight and reduce inflammation.
- Getting enough sleep: Getting enough sleep can help improve energy levels and cognitive function.
- Managing stress: Stress can worsen symptoms, so it is important to find ways to manage stress, such as relaxation techniques or exercise.
Parkinson’s disease is a chronic condition, but with proper treatment, people with PD can live long and active lives.